Restored memorial to WW1 medics rededicated

13 October 2016

After being painstakingly restored, the memorial to the First World War medical staff at Awapuni Racecourse in Palmerston North will be rededicated in a ceremony on 20 October 2016.
Awapuni was the sole location for training the New Zealand Medical Corps staff during the First World War and was home to one of New Zealand’s largest training camps at the time.
The Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps, together with Palmerston North City Council and the Awapuni Racing Centre, established a project team to restore, reinvigorate and rededicate the Awapuni Medical Memorial.
“The rededication is the culmination of a two-year restoration project initiated to address the poor state of the memorial, recognise the centenary of the First World War and our pledge to never forget,” said project lead Lieutenant Colonel (LTCOL) Darren Beck, former commanding officer of 2nd Health Support Battalion (NZ) and Regimental Colonel of the Royal New Zealand Army Medical Corps.
“The Awapuni Medical Memorial honours the contribution and sacrifice of the officers and soldiers of the New Zealand Medical Corps (NZMC) during the war. It also symbolises the importance of Awapuni and its significance for both city and national heritage,” LTCOL Beck said.
The support for the project had been inspiring, with many people, businesses and organisations offering support, he said.
“It simply demonstrates the high regard people have for the importance of this memorial and for the memory of those who served and sacrificed. The rededication event is an opportunity to acknowledge those currently serving and bring the community together again almost 87 years since its original dedication.”
Palmerston North Mayor Grant Smith said the memorial recognised the important role the city played, and continued to play, for the New Zealand Medical Corps and the New Zealand Defence Force.
“It’s also a perfect opportunity for us to renew our pledge to never forget.”
Media interested in attending the event, which includes a formal military ceremonial rededication and historical and contemporary medical capability display, should register their interest by email to [email protected] by 3pm on Tuesday, 18 October.